Obagi Medical Professional‑C Vitamin C Serum 20% — 1.0 fl oz, high‑potency for normal to oily skin

Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% is a concentrated L-ascorbic acid facial serum formulated to deliver high-strength vitamin C for brighter, more resilient-looking skin.

This 1.0 fl oz serum from Obagi Medical contains 20% pure L-ascorbic acid in a formulation designed to penetrate skin layers and support overall skin texture and tone. Created for normal to oily skin types, the formula aims to reduce the visible signs of aging, even out discoloration, and hydrate without heavy residue. The product uses a delivery system intended to optimize absorption and enhance performance compared with simple vitamin C solutions.

How does a 20% vitamin C concentration affect my skin routine?

A 20% L-ascorbic acid concentration is considered high potency and provides stronger antioxidant support than lower-strength serums. It fits well into an AM or PM routine, typically applied after cleansing and before moisturizers or sunscreen. Start slowly if you have sensitive skin to assess tolerance, then increase frequency as tolerated.

• Use 1–2 drops per application to cover face and neck.
• Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams.
• Introduce every other day for the first 1–2 weeks if skin is reactive.
• Pair with sunscreen during daytime to protect skin from environmental stressors.

What benefits can I expect from regular use of this serum?

Regular application can help improve skin brightness and make discoloration appear less noticeable while supporting smoother texture. The serum is formulated to hydrate without feeling heavy and to work through multiple skin layers, helping skin look fresher and more even over time. Results vary with skin type and routine consistency.

• Visibly brighter tone and minimized uneven pigmentation.
• Smoother skin texture and improved surface radiance.
• Lightweight hydration suitable for normal to oily skin types.
• Designed delivery system to aid ingredient penetration.

Is this serum appropriate for sensitive or reactive skin?

Although formulated to be suitable for dry, sensitive, or reactive skin types, the 20% strength is potent and may cause tingling for some users. Patch testing is recommended before full-face use. If sensitivity occurs, reduce frequency or lower to a milder vitamin C product until tolerance improves.

• Patch test on inner wrist or jawline for 24–48 hours first.
• If irritation arises, pause use and consult skincare professional as needed.
• Allow skin to acclimate by using every other day initially.
• Follow with soothing moisturizer to calm any transient reaction.

How does this product fit into an effective anti-aging regimen?

Use this serum as a core antioxidant step to complement other products like retinoids, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Antioxidant serums help protect skin from daily environmental stressors while supporting visible signs of aging when used consistently. Coordinate active ingredients to avoid overstimulation — for example, alternate nights with strong exfoliants or retinoids if irritation occurs.

• AM: cleanse, apply Obagi Professional-C 20% serum, then sunscreen.
• PM: cleanse, use retinoid or other treatment if tolerated, then moisturize.
• Avoid layering multiple high-strength actives simultaneously to reduce irritation risk.
• Consistent use over weeks yields the most noticeable improvements.

Who is this for: Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% is designed for individuals with normal to oily skin seeking a high-strength vitamin C treatment to address dullness, uneven tone, and the visual signs of aging. It's a suitable option for experienced skincare users comfortable introducing potent actives; those with very sensitive skin should begin with lower concentrations or consult a skincare professional before starting. Use as part of a balanced routine that includes daily sun protection for best results.

Ingredients

Propylene glycol, water, L-ascorbic acid, alcohol, ascorbyl glucoside, ethoxydiglycol, phenoxyethanol, sorbitol, sodium hyaluronate, zinc chloride, calcium hydroxide, fragrance